As we wrap up another busy stretch at Woodridge, I am continually reminded of how much heart and talent live within our community. Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the joy of seeing our students shine in so many ways— from Rhapsody sharing their voices at the Rotary holiday celebration, to the Woodridge Middle School production of The Entire Revolutionary War in 40 Minutes or Less, to the creativity and leadership on display during our Superintendent Student Advisory Council meeting. 

I’ve also been excited to see important work moving forward, including continued planning for the Woodridge High School science remodel, where our team is thoughtfully preparing a space that will better support student learning for years to come. 

At the same time, we are paying close attention to what is happening at the state level, particularly proposed property tax reform legislation that could significantly impact how school districts like ours are funded and how we plan for the future. While these changes aim to bring more predictability for taxpayers, they will also require districts to navigate new constraints. This could be the most significant shift to Ohio’s property tax system in decades, making it important that we stay informed and keep the conversation going. 

As always, if you have questions or simply want to talk, I am here for the conversation. Thank you for your continued support of our students, our faculty and staff, and our Woodridge community. 

Woodridge Local Schools

This fall, Woodridge proudly celebrates the continued excellence of its boys’ and girls’ cross country teams, who added another historic chapter to one of Ohio’s strongest high school programs.

For the 21st consecutive year, both teams qualified for the OHSAA State Championships—a state record that reflects the consistency, preparation, and work ethic defining this program. Walking around the state meet in Woodridge gear is like wearing St. Edward gear at the state wrestling tournament—people notice, and it matters.

Girls Cross Country captured League, District, and Regional titles, finishing 5th in Division III at the state meet. All-Ohio runners Lola Mullen (5th overall, MAC Runner of the Year) and Lillian Singer (18th overall) led the team. Additional members include Olivia Mullen, Becky Adame, Jaja Rosario- Johnson, Madison Singer, Gwyneth Neitenbach, and Lilly McMonigle, whose balanced, team-focused approach defined the season.

Boys Cross Country entered the state meet ranked No. 1 in Ohio and delivered, winning the 2025 OHSAA Division III State Championship— Woodridge’s 11th boys’ title and first since 2020. All-Ohio athletes included Atticus Sloan, Ben LeBay (MAC Runner of the Year), and John Brock, with Second-Team honors for Xavier and Remington Griffiths.

Thanks to Head Coach Jeff Howard, assistants Leah Norris and John Harry, and the entire Bulldog cross country community for supporting these remarkable student-athletes. A special thanks goes to Head Coach Jeff Howard and assistant coaches Leah Norris and John Harry, along with the entire Bulldog cross country community, whose support helps make this program extraordinary year after year. 

The annual Woodridge Middle School Turkey Trot once again brought excitement, generosity, and a little bit of friendly competition to the building. Each year, WMS students donate canned goods and pantry items to support the Woodridge Food Pantry. Every item counts as a “vote” toward the staff member who will wear the turkey costume for the day—an incentive that never fails to motivate students.

This year delivered a first for WMS. Heading into the school day, Ms. Sasavicz held the lead and was prepared to don the turkey suit. But just minutes after students arrived, the votes shifted and Mrs. Witsaman surged ahead. Ten minutes later, another donation arrived, resulting in a tie!

In good spirits, Mrs. Witsaman wore the costume during the one-mile Turkey Trot, where all students participate in the annual run. Ms. Sasavicz took her turn the next week during the always-popular Gobbler Games.

WMS extends a huge thank-you to every student and family who donated. Your generosity helps support local families and strengthens our entire community. 

The 48th Annual Woodridge Craft Show was held Saturday, December 6, at Woodridge High School and welcomed an estimated 1,000+ shoppers throughout the day. The biggest thank-you goes to Teresa Rush, whose leadership and countless hours of planning were instrumental in the event’s success. Thanks to the Woodridge High School PTO, dedicated volunteers, talented student performers, and supportive staff, the Craft Show once again showcased the very best of the Woodridge community. 

This month’s Difference Maker recognizes Jess Stone, Kitchen Manager at Woodridge Middle School, whose creativity, leadership, and heart make a daily impact on students. For 16 years, Jess has led the WMS food service team, inspiring them to think outside the box and serve meals that are both nutritious and delicious.

A strong advocate for farm-to-table initiatives, she introduces students to new foods, celebrates Ohio’s annual Apple Crunch, and ensured students learning from home during COVID stayed connected with local apples and STEM activities. Jess and her team bring energy and fun to National School Breakfast and Lunch Weeks, this year turning “Taste the World” into a global lunchtime adventure.

She also engages staff and administration in creating a schoolwide culture around healthy eating, from mentoring her team to involving leaders in serving meals.

Her influence extends beyond WMS through Woodridge Eats, inspiring school nutrition professionals nationwide. Jess is a true Difference Maker at Woodridge! 

The Woodridge Athletic Hall of Fame once again delivered one of the most memorable evenings of the year, blending the district’s rich athletic tradition with the excellence that defines today’s Bulldogs. On Friday, November 28, 2025, the Woodridge community gathered at Todaro’s Party Center to honor a remarkable group of athletes, leaders, and supporters whose influence has shaped generations of Woodridge athletics.

Established to recognize individuals who have made exceptional contributions to our programs—whether through elite performance, steadfast service, or unwavering support—the Hall of Fame continues to highlight the very best of Woodridge. This year’s class offered a powerful combination of historic accomplishment and modern achievement, celebrating Bulldogs who have excelled both on and off the field.

The 2025 Hall of Fame Class includes standout runners Micah Blair, 2nd Lieutenant Sam Dutt, and Libby Howard, along with track and field standout Erin Eby—all from the Class of 2020. Also inducted were bowling star Bryce Oliver (Class of 2020), two-sport athlete Zane Patterson (Class of 2018), longtime community supporter and coach Dan Schneider Sr., and multi-sport standout Shayla Williams (Class of 2016), whose accomplishments span volleyball, basketball, and softball.

Throughout the evening, inductees shared stories, reflected on their journeys, and celebrated the teammates, coaches, and families who helped shape their success.

Congratulations to the Hall of Fame Class of 2025—and thank you for your dedication, your achievements, and the lasting legacy you leave within Woodridge Athletics. 

Honey Locust Preschool, in partnership with AMHA, hosted a special holiday shop this past Friday to support Woodridge families in need during the Christmas season. The heart of this event was the dedication of Woodridge’s own teachers and district staff, who rallied together to help ease the financial strain many families feel this time of year. 

Woodridge staff and community members generously donated gently used toys, and preschool teacher Sean Revell— along with his family—provided a large selection of brand-new gifts. Sean also created an engaging child activity center featuring Santa letter writing, ornament making, and story time. This gave parents the chance to shop privately and thoughtfully for the items their children would love most. 

A special thank-you goes to Jenny Pyle, Woodridge’s Wellness & Engagement Specialist, whose leadership & partnership with Sean made the entire event possible. Together, they coordinated an effort that provided toys and gifts to 70 children across the Woodridge community—an incredible demonstration of staff compassion & the Woodridge Way in action. 

At Woodridge Schools, we understand that the holidays can bring added pressure for families. We hope this event brought relief, joy, and a sense of support to households throughout our district. 

Sean, Jenny, and the Honey Locust team are already looking forward to growing the holiday shop next year, continuing to build on the kindness and commitment shown by Woodridge educators and staff. Wishing everyone a warm and joyful holiday season—and always remember to keep believing.